Far from any civilization, close to nature, the desert is a timeless setting where you can find yourself on an initiatory journey. You want to go on an adventure, but don’t know where to start to go to the desert? Discover here our selection of the most beautiful deserts in Europe and in the world, as well as some advice to enjoy this unique experience serenely.
The Sahara
In northern Africa, the Sahara Desert stretches over 8.5 million km2. Considered the largest desert in the world, this immense expanse of sand largely covers the territories of 10 states, namely: Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Mauritania, Mali, Niger, Chad, and Sudan. Discovering this mythical desert is an opportunity to live a unique experience in the heart of a timeless landscape, meeting fascinating nomadic peoples.
The easiest way to visit the Sahara is to go through Morocco. Easy to access from France, Morocco is also known for its tailor-made guided tours. 4×4 tour, trekking, camel trekking (hiking on the back of a Mehari dromedary) or simple night in a bivouac, there is something for everyone.
The Bardenas Reales Desert
No need to go far to enjoy a desert experience. In the north of Spain, less than 200 km from the French border, the Bardenas Reales desert is one of the most beautiful deserts in Europe and the world. Ravines, canyons, arid lands and surprising color contrasts… In the heart of the desert, torrential rains have sculpted a real Wild West landscape to discover in one day during a trip to Spain! Depending on the route taken, visitors looking for a change of scenery can venture into the Bardenas Reales desert by car, bike or hiking.
The Agriates desert
Long cultivated by locals, the territory of Agriates is now deserted. Framed by sublime beaches of the Mediterranean Sea to the North, and by the mountain range of Monte Astu to the South, the site does not, however, correspond to the image that one has of a desert. Indeed, mixing wild landscapes with a preserved maquis (plant formation characteristic of regions with a Mediterranean climate), the site is one of the treasures of the Isle of Beauty. Discover the small desert of Agriates (about 60 km2) on a hike, a mountain bike ride, a 4×4 excursion or even a boat trip!
The Gobi Desert
Considered one of the most beautiful deserts in the world, the Gobi Desert stretches over 1.3 million km2 between China and Mongolia. In this gigantic space, the landscapes are as varied as they are breathtaking. Sand dunes, arid steppe, frozen canyons, salt flats, mountains… It’s impossible to get bored! On horseback, on the back of a camel or in a 4×4, crisscross these dreamlike settings and observe their rich fauna (including the Przewalski horse, the hemione, and the famous snow leopard) without delay. Meet the Mongolian nomads and discover a centuries-old way of life, a thousand miles from our Western habits.
What are the entry requirements for Mongolia? Have a valid passport, valid for 6 months after the return date, and with 3 blank pages (including 2 facing each other). Until 2025, French nationals are exempt from visas for tourist stays of up to 30 days on Mongolian territory.
The White Desert of Lençóis Maranhenses
White sand dunes shaped by the wind, turquoise and crystal-clear freshwater lagoons… This is not a mirage, but the Lençóis Maranhenses desert in Brazil. In the northeast of the country, on the Atlantic coast, this extraordinary setting is a true natural treasure. Go and recharge your batteries in the heart of this little paradise. Admire it from the sky by plane, from the mangroves by boat or by 4×4, as close as possible to the dunes and lagoons! You can take a dip and, to top it all off, spend the night in one of the park’s oases, meeting the local communities.
How to prepare for your trip to the desert?
You have chosen your destination and are ready to plan your trip to the desert?
Our first piece of advice is this: whether your desert excursion lasts one day or extends over several nights, rely on travel professionals. Indeed, the desert is a hostile environment, the specificities of which must be mastered. To venture there safely, rely on the advice of an expert. (Nothing prevents you from submitting the ideas you have picked up during your reading to him to adapt your itinerary).
